2023 Hentley Farm The Stray Mongrel GSZ, Barossa Valley

The 2023 Hentley Farm The Stray Mongrel GSZ is a bold yet balanced Barossa red blend that brings a fresh, modern lens to some of the region’s most traditional grape varieties. GSZ stands for Grenache, Shiraz, and Zinfandel — an unusual trio in Australia, but one that Hentley Farm handles with confidence and flair. Each variety plays its role: Grenache offers perfume and red fruit, Shiraz brings mid-palate weight and spice, and Zinfandel adds wild berry richness and an edge of rustic charm.

Sourced from Hentley Farm’s estate vineyards on the western edge of the Barossa Valley, the fruit comes from low-yielding vines grown in red clay and loam soils over limestone. The wine is fermented in small open fermenters with gentle pump-overs, followed by ageing in older French oak barrels to maintain fruit purity and texture.

The nose is vibrant and juicy, with aromas of raspberry coulis, cherry liqueur, crushed violets and sweet baking spice. The palate is medium to full bodied with soft tannins and lively acidity, showing layers of red and black berries, plum skin, chocolate-dipped cherries and subtle peppery spice. It’s plush, but with lift — a wine that feels energetic rather than heavy.

Food pairing: excellent with barbecue ribs, grilled lamb skewers, smoky eggplant, duck sausages or pork belly. Also great with aged cheddar, chorizo or a mushroom and lentil bake.

Cellar potential: drinking beautifully now for its vibrancy and charm, but will evolve over the next 5 to 8 years as the components knit together and develop savoury depth.